Chances of Getting Into University of California, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, California • Public University • #82 National • Founded 1965
UCSC Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
UCSC SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About University of California, Santa Cruz
UC Santa Cruz sits in a redwood forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean — one of the most beautiful campus settings anywhere. Known for its game design program, marine biology research, and progressive culture, UCSC punches above its weight in specific STEM fields and attracts creative, environmentally-minded students.
Top Programs
What Makes UCSC Unique
- Campus in a redwood forest overlooking Monterey Bay
- Lick Observatory — world-class astronomy and astrophysics
- Top game design program (ranked #1 by multiple outlets)
- Long Marine Laboratory for marine biology research
- Banana slug mascot — proudly weird
UCSC Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
UCSC Application Deadlines
How to Get Into UCSC: Admission Tips
UC application deadline is November 30 — don't miss it
UCSC is getting more competitive; don't assume easy admission
If interested in game design, astrophysics, or marine bio, UCSC is excellent
PIQs (Personal Insight Questions) are crucial for all UC applications
No supplemental essays — PIQs serve all UCs simultaneously
The Brutal Truth About UCSC Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 47% acceptance rate, UCSC rejected over 34,450 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At UCSC, having a 3.6 GPA and 1275 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. UCSC doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if UCSC genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 47%-acceptance-rate basket.
UCSC Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at University of California, Santa Cruz?
University of California, Santa Cruz has an acceptance rate of 47% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 65,000+ applicants, approximately 4,600 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into UCSC?
The average GPA of admitted students at University of California, Santa Cruz is 3.6. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.45, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for UCSC?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted UCSC students is 1170-1380. The average SAT score is 1275. For ACT, the range is 24-31 with an average of 28.
Is UCSC hard to get into?
Yes, University of California, Santa Cruz is selective with an acceptance rate of just 47%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does UCSC cost?
Tuition at University of California, Santa Cruz is $14,312 per year, with total cost of attendance at $37,800. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $24,000+.
What are my chances of getting into UCSC?
Your chances of getting into University of California, Santa Cruz depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 47% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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